Save money and go online

While gas prices may be low, students are still performing budgeting acrobatics to keep costs down driving to and from college classes. But Lone Star College System students can choose another option — online courses.

The college system’s booming online courses give residents the opportunity to earn a certificate or degree after work or while they’re out of a job from the comfort of their living room.

Using online chatrooms to discuss texts or study for upcoming exams, students can interact with their professor and other classmates without time-sucking traffic snarls, parking hassles and frequent fill-ups at the pump. People nationwide are enrolling in the classroom alternative.